Daily Choices: What to do on Friday, March 1 

Art: Time to brave the bitter weather. March’s First Friday is a cabin-fever reliever, and promises a bunch of art receptions and even a literary scavenger hunt. Visit firstfridayrochester.org or our online calendar at rochestercitynewspaper.com for more.

Music: The founding members of They Might Be Giants have been creating and playing music together for 30 years. While the line-up of the rest of the band has changed since the move to a full band in the early 90’s, John Flansburgh and John Linnell have been the linchpins, overseeing the group’s sound and direction. The Giants have sold more than 4 million records, won two Grammys, and recorded children’s albums. The group is nothing if not prolific. The band’s upcoming album — its 16th — will be released on March 5. But before that, the outfit brings its indie rock to The German House for a show on March 1. Washington, D.C. band Vandaveer opens the show. The Might Be Giants perform tonight, 8 p.m. at the German House Theater, 315 Gregory St. $30.50-$35.

Dance: Rochester Dance Project will bring the paintings of Jennissa Hart to life through contemporary dance on Friday, March 1, at 7:15 p.m. The evening will also include student/teacher demonstrations in ballroom dancing with live music, and takes place at the new multi-use space, Lessons at the Loft (708 University Ave.). The event is free and open to the public, and doors open at 6 p.m.

Music: This Boston-based singer-songwriter has been praised for her multidimensional sound and dynamic live shows, which feature beat boxing, fervent lyrical appeal, improvisational songwriting, and a percussive approach to acoustic guitar. Kristen Ford, in the best possible way, is a genre train wreck, mixing the styles of reggae, indie, folk, and disco into a frenetic musical fold that The NYC Deli has described as “pure rock ‘n’ roll screaming with childish joy.” Pretend that Ani DiFranco and Bob Marley had a child that goes bar-hopping with Isaac Brock and you’ll have a pretty good idea of Ford’s sonic journeys. While some of her stage banter might be inappropriate, the songs ooze with a vigilant propriety. Local acts Mikaela Davis and Sean Michael Smith will also perform. Kristen Ford performs tonight 8 p.m. at Tala Vera, 155 State St. $5-$7. 546-3845, tala-vera.com.

Film: New films opening locally this week include “21 & Over,” “Burn,” “Jack the Giant Slayer,” “Kai Po Che,” “The Last Exorcism Part II,” and “Phantom.” Head here for full movie time listings.

Music: Got used instruments? Music4Everyone will be hosting a benefit concert tonight at Lovin Cup (300 Park Point Dr., lovincup.com), featuring This Life, The Bearfoot Brothers, and The Patrick Jaouen Band. Music starts at 8 p.m., $5 suggested donation for entry, and bring all those used instruments to donate to the cause.

Special: I know, it seems like this winter will never end. Every time you go outside snow is in the air, ice is on the ground, and your hair freezes. But spring really isn’t that far away. Get yourself excited for the return of flowers and warmer temps with Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Site’s annual Orchid Show & Sale, taking place Friday-Sunday, March 1-3, at the site in Canandaigua. Sonnenberg is located at 151 Charlotte St. in Canandaigua. The event runs 10 a.m.-5 p.m. each day, with wine tastings Saturday noon-4 p.m. and Sunday 1-4 p.m. Admission to the event is $5. For more information call 394-4922 or visit sonnenberg.org.

Music/Art: A busy night tonight at the Flying Squirrel Community Space (285 Clarissa St.), where you’ll be able to find a local artist walk through, as well as local musicians. Artists include Samantha Berger, Lauren Daggs, and Cool-Cat Kwiatkowski. Musical acts include Charit Way, 2 Legged Death Machine, Deeper Than The Ocean, and Skooba. Music starts at 7 p.m., free coffee will be provided.

Music: Looking for something to do after First Friday? Head on down to the Post First Friday celebration, featuring Love Scenes, A Victory for Upfish, Drippers, Wild Gone Girls, and Modern Séance. Music starts at 9 p.m., cover $5.

Music: Local area bands are kicking off the 30 Shows in 30 Days Benefit tonight at the Sea Breeze Fire Department (4657 Culver Rd., seebreezefd.org), which starts a 30 day tour of local fire departments to help raise awareness after the West Webster tragedy. Music starts at 7 p.m. and is free.

Music: One might be the loneliest number, but one man band/DJ Brent Peersia only needs one. Check out his musical one man show tonight at Blu Bar & Grill (250 Pixley Rd.) tonight at 9 p.m., cover is free.